If you're gift shopping for your favorite motorcycle rider, it can be easy to overspend your budget. Many of the most popular accessories like a riding jacket or exhaust system can easily cost several hundred dollars. And with many high-end parts, there may be additional time and expense for the installation.
But not all popular bike accessories cost a fortune. With a little help, you can find plenty of motorcycle accessories for under a hundred dollars that are sure to please the biker in your life. So if you have a motorcycle fan on your shopping list, here are five gift ideas that they’re sure to like but won’t land you in the poor house.
1. Tool bags
A smaller alternative to a full set of motorcycle saddlebags, good-quality tool bags are available for under $50-$60. Having a few essential tools on the road can be a real lifesaver for a rider. Most tool bags mount to the front forks or sissy bars with hook and loop straps that most manufacturers include with purchase. Like full-sized saddlebags, the best-value tool bags are made of synthetic leather.
Look for tool bags that are designed with reinforced plastic so they maintain their shape over the long haul. And help keep valuables secure by looking for tool bags that include lockable buckles – many of the $50 models I’ve reviewed are the lockable variety.
2. Gas Tank Chaps/Bibs
A great way to complement the look of a new set of saddlebags, tanks chaps quickly add a custom look to a bike. Tank chaps fit under the gas cap or tank speedometer and rear tank mounting hardware. Almost all models have a scratch-resistant backing that will not harm a bike’s paint job.
Tanks chaps are available in genuine or synthetic leather, are a snap to install and are custom fit for each bike’s tank shape. Many also include a small storage pouch for a phone, wallet or keys. Most tank chaps are typically priced between $50 and $100.
3. Custom Brake & Clutch Levers
Aftermarket bike levers gives you a real bang for your buck. For around $20, you can get a new pair of custom chrome or alloy finish levers designed to fit each model bike. In addition to adding a custom look, custom levers are much more comfortable than stock levers. The wider design is easier on the fingers, especially when your rider’s caught in stop and go traffic.
For about the cost of a takeout dinner, you really can’t go wrong with a new pair of aftermarket levers.
4. Chrome Side Covers
Add a healthy dose of chrome to a motorcycle without needing a single wrench. Chrome side covers look great and replace the standard painted covers in a snap. The only catch is the covers are one of the more expensive accessories on our list – with prices starting at $95.
Side covers are designed specifically for each make and model bike and are typically sold in pairs. A great add-on if you’re looking for a custom part that offers your rider some instant gratification.
5. Saddlebags
Because they are so handy, saddlebags are the first accessory I get for a new bike. Saddlebags are essential for the long rides but also great for quick trips to the store. Even the smallest saddlebags can save a rider from cramming all of his or her stuff uncomfortably into pants pockets or riding jacket.
Many folks don’t realize you can get decent saddlebags for as little as $50. Smaller, throw-over saddlebags that hang from the seat or rear fender and do not require support brackets. I recommend synthetic materials over leather as they are more weather resistant and are typically less expensive than genuine leather models.
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